When Data Thistle started archiving live events information, it was to create a cultural record of the UK as a whole. Recent work with Campaign for the Arts (read the excellent 'State of the Arts' if you haven't already) has highlighted the importance of this mission. The data we collect has myriad commercial uses, but it can also provide the hard facts needed to sway politicians' minds and strengthen the UK's vibrant cultural sector. Yesterday the Music Venue Trust stated that the average length of a tour has dropped by nearly 50% since 1994 thanks to rising costs - we will shortly be working with The Audience Agency to better understand this trend.
Great day at Music Venue Trust's venue day yesterday. Inspiring, filled with hope but also a stark reminder of the difficulties that grassroots venues face with a staggering 43.8% of venues making a loss in 2024. This at a time when gross income for the sector as a whole has risen by 12.4%. A redistribution from top to bottom is essential and the seeds are there (Coldplay donating 10% of their 2025 UK tour earnings is a notable moment in time). Grassroots venues are community spaces where the artists of the future have room to explore and grow. They are vital to communities and create memories that can last a lifetime. Thanks to Mark Davyd and Beverley Whitrick for the invite. I look forward to what we can do together.